The Three Principles of Hapkido

Nonresistance (Hwa) – Harmony

Circle principle (Won) – Circle

The Water/Flexible principle (Yu) – Flow

Why Study Hapkido?

Hapkido is known around the world for its self-defense applications. Many law enforcement officers are taught Hapkido as part of their unarmed combat; because modern Hapkido retains the real world applications that many martial arts have lost in favor of becoming a sport for the masses.

Hapkido emphasizes circular motion and control of the opponent. The essence of Hapkido is to gain advantage through technique, avoiding the use of strength against strength. Thus a “weaker” person is able to defend him/herself against a “stronger” attacker.